Quote:
Originally Posted by Caveat Emperor
I don't disagree -- Marshall has been fantastic. But he's never closed ballgames before and dealt with the issues involved with being a closer: irregular pitching schedule, irregular warmup time (a closer might only begin throwing 1 or 2 outs into an inning if his team takes the lead in their at bat), added mental issues associated with being "the closer," etc.
At some point, he's going to have to prove that his numbers translate to the different role.
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Exactly. I wasn't baiting, because this is relevant conversation and I was stimulating it. Turns out all afternoon on MLB Radio Sirius/XM just about all they talked about were Marshall and Robertson (NYY) both 8th inning accomplished guys historically - now thrust into 9th inning duties. I was surprised how many callers and that the hosts agreed Marshall isn't suited to be a closer. Opponents are typically locked in and concentrating in the 9th and maybe they do foul off that hook more often to get a pitch they can drive.
No metric I know of measures fortitude to, in turn, bear down as well and get the high value save. Joe Borowski can save 45 games when most of them invovle a 3-run lead....so can Marshall. But the 1 run saves? Against the heart of the order or stud RH batters? Chapman or Ondrusek might be better options.